What Are Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident
Updated: Feb 21, 2025
Any individual injured in a New York City car crash has the right to recover the compensation for injuries sustained, lost wages, and other damages. After a car crash, the sooner you seek guidance from an experienced New York City car accident lawyer, the better off you will be in protecting your legal rights.
The Right To Reject Early Settlement Offers
It may sometimes take several days or even weeks before accident victims discover injuries. If you have been involved in a New York City auto accident, you should not assume that your injuries will heal without medical intervention. Most insurance companies use a 72-hour Rule in their software programs to assist them in placing a value on an injury claim. Insurance companies consider whether you seek prompt medical attention within the first seventy-two (72) hours after an accident when deciding on your claim. If you do not get medical attention right away, your insurer is likely to offer you less money for your claim. Before notifying your insurers, reach out to a car accident attorney. The lawyer will ensure you get yourself thoroughly examined by a qualified physician. The lawyer will review the reporting requirements in your policy to determine how long you have to notify your insurance company of the accident. Your lawyer may advise you not to accept the insurer’s first settlement offer. Usually, the initial settlement offers are low.
The Right To Refuse Giving A Recorded Statement To Insurance Companies
An accident victim has only one chance to receive compensation. The purpose of compensation is to make the injured individual “whole” again. Accident victims do not have a legal obligation to give a recorded statement. Insurance claims adjusters, with vast experience in taking such statements, can trick you into providing answers that can adversely impact the outcome of your case.
A recorded statement can make you lose the opportunity to obtain the funds required to put your life back on track and make your family’s future financially secure.
The best way to protect your legal rights is to have a seasoned car accident lawyer handle all communication with the insurers on your behalf.
The Right To Negotiate A Fair Settlement
Your lawyer will prepare and send a demand letter to the insurance company after determining the value of your case. Your lawyer will request the highest settlement amount. The insurance company will most likely disagree with the requested amount and send a lower settlement offer. Lengthy negotiations may be essential before a reasonable settlement agreement is reached. If settlement negotiations are unsuccessful, your lawyer will suggest filing a lawsuit.
Contact A Knowledgeable New York City Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced car accident lawyer will provide sound legal advice, explain each step along the way, and be your trusted ally during a difficult time in your life. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries due to another party’s carelessness or negligence in New York City, reaching out to a car accident lawyer can help greatly. Find out how by contacting a New York City car accident lawyer immediately to schedule an initial case assessment.
